Regulating the plant density influences to the weed infestation, productivity and chemical composition of seeds of true hemp Cannabis sativa L.

Abstract

The article focuses on the cultivation of hemp ( Cannabis sativa L.) for seed production, specifi - cally examining the effects of different seeding densities and herbicidal control on weed infestation, plant characteristics, and nutrient content in the seeds. Hemp is a versatile plant known for its fiber and oil production, including health-promoting cannabinoids. The study utilizes a Romanian monoecious variety called Secuieni Jubileu, which has low THC content and is suitable for seed cultivation. The experiment compares three treatments: sowing at a density of 20 kg ha -1 with herbicide, sowing at a density of 30 kg ha -1 with herbicide, and sowing at a density of 30 kg ha -1 without herbicide. The results indicate significant differences in weed density among the treatments, with herbicide application and higher seeding density reducing weed populations. Plant height, number of leaves, and seed fraction also varied significantly among the treatments, with higher seeding density (30 kg ha -1 ) resulting in higher plants, decreased leaf number and with the predominant fraction of 2.5 mm in the seeds. The experimental factor also significantly differentiated the macro-and micronutrient content of hemp seeds. Nutrient content analysis revealed variations in nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium levels in the hemp seeds, depending on the experimental treatments. Overall, the study highlights the importance of seeding density and herbicidal control in hemp cultivation for seed production. The findings suggest that higher seeding density can effectively suppress weed growth, whereas the yield and the high ratio of seed fraction at 2.8 mm is attributed to herbicide control and seed density of 20 kg ha -1 . The research contributes to the understanding of optimal cultivation practices for hemp seed production, aiming to support stable, efficient, and profitable agricultur - al production in the field.